"The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, 'Behold, the Lamb of God!' The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus." — John 1:35-37
In this passage, John the Baptist points his own disciples toward Jesus, declaring Him as the Lamb of God. Immediately, two of his disciples—Andrew and another (likely John, the Gospel’s author)—leave John the Baptist and follow Jesus. This moment is a powerful picture of what it means to truly follow Christ.
John the Baptist had been preparing the way for the Messiah, yet he understood that his role was temporary. When Jesus arrived, John did not cling to his followers but directed them toward the One they truly needed. This is a model of faithful ministry—our purpose is not to build a following for ourselves but to lead people to Christ.
Andrew and the other disciple’s response was immediate. They did not hesitate or seek more confirmation. Upon hearing John’s testimony about Jesus, they followed Him without delay. Their response challenges us: when confronted with the truth of who Jesus is, do we follow Him wholeheartedly, or do we hesitate, weighed down by worldly attachments?
Jesus turns to these two disciples and asks, “What are you seeking?” (v. 38). This question is as relevant today as it was then. Many seek Jesus for personal gain—prosperity, comfort, or temporary blessings. But these disciples were seeking the Messiah, the One who alone provides eternal life.
Their response, “Rabbi, where are you staying?” indicates a desire for more than a passing encounter; they wanted to abide with Him. True discipleship is not simply knowing about Jesus but dwelling with Him—learning, growing, and submitting to His Lordship.
Andrew, after spending time with Jesus, immediately seeks out his brother Simon (later called Peter) and brings him to Christ. Here we see a key truth: genuine encounters with Jesus lead to action. Andrew did not keep the good news to himself; he shared it.
When Simon meets Jesus, He renames him Cephas (Peter), which means “rock.” This new name signifies Peter’s transformation—though he was impulsive and weak at times, Christ would shape him into a pillar of the church.
This passage challenges us to examine our discipleship. Do we follow Christ fully? Do we seek Him for who He truly is? And do we bring others to Him? True discipleship is marked by obedience, a desire to abide in Christ, and a life transformed by His power.
Application:
- Follow Christ immediately when called.
- Seek Jesus not for temporary benefits, but for the truth and eternal life He offers.
- Share the gospel boldly, leading others to Him.
Let us, like Andrew and John, respond to Jesus with eager hearts and transformed lives.